Contractors Board warns homeowners of unlicensed contractors

RENO, Nev. (KRNV & MyNews4.com) -- The Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) is issuing a consumer alert to all northern Nevada residents of an unlicensed contractor, Horton Home Improvement, LLC, in the Reno/Sparks area.

The NSCB says the unlicensed contractor is known to have a large sales team, reportedly 50 or more representatives, solicitinghome improvement services, many of which require a contractor’s license, to homeowners.

NSCB says while there are no reports of scams or fraudulent activities at this time, Horton Home Improvement, LLC, has been cited by the Board for allegedly contracting without a license, bidding work for trades that require a contractor’s license, such as siding and concrete. Their advertisement states they can assist you with “All Your Home Improvement Needs,” highlighting services of “Roofing, Siding, Painting, Windows, Doors, Solar, Concrete, and more.” Each of these trade services being advertised require a contractor’s license, which the public may not realize.

NSCB reminds homeowners that when they contract with an unlicensed contractor, they lose many of the protections in place if something were to go wrong.

NSCB says homeowners seeking contractors for home improvement services are encouraged to remember the following: Always hire a licensed contractor. Homeowners who hire unlicensed contractors are not eligible for the Residential Recovery Fund, whichmay award financial recourse up to $35,000 if damages are incurred during the project. NSCB is limited in its ability to assist homeowners with correcting workmanship issues if an unlicensedcontractor was hired.NSCB Release 02/01/2013 Page 2 of 2 Unlicensed contractors have not passed trade and law exams, demonstrated financial responsibility,and are not required to carry worker’s compensation insurance, which are all required of licensedcontractors in Nevada. Always contact the Board with any questions or concerns prior to hiring a contractor. The Board canprovide information on a contractor’s license status, what classification of contractor’s license may berequired for a project, and address any other questions homeowner’s may have.